Coach John Wooden Dies at Age 99

Leaves an inspiring legacy of leadership in athletics and life

Coach John Wooden's legacy of leadership transcends athletics and spans generations. As a legendary coach, prolific author and inspiring speaker, in his core he was a teacher who taught life's lessons and values. Coach Wooden instilled in others a sense of pride, a commitment to ethics, and a respect for teamwork. His principles are timeless, and have inspired countless leaders, from sports to business and government.

In 2008, in partnership with Coach Wooden, UCLA Anderson School of Management was privileged to establish the John Wooden Global Leadership Program. As part of the program, UCLA Anderson presents the John Wooden Global Leadership Award each year. The award honors an exceptional leader who embodies the special qualities and generosity of spirit of the Coach in both community and business. To date, Howard Schultz, Chairman and CEO of Starbucks, Kenneth Chenault, Chairman and CEO of American Express Company and Frederick W. Smith, Chairman, President and CEO of FedEx are the recipients of the John Wooden Global Leadership Award.

"I am deeply saddened by the loss of Coach John Wooden, who inspired us all through his leadership values and wonderful outlook on life," said UCLA Anderson Dean Judy Olian upon learning of the passing of Coach Wooden. "The entire UCLA Anderson community expresses our heartfelt sympathies to the Wooden family. We're privileged that he is the namesake of the John Wooden Global Leadership Program at UCLA Anderson, which each year bestows the John Wooden Global Leadership Award to a leader who exemplifies the Coach's special qualities. He'll be missed terribly, but his gift to future generations is his legacy of values-driven leadership."

In 2008, as part of the inaugural Wooden Global Leadership Award presentation, Coach Wooden participated in a pair of interviews with Andy Serwer of Fortune.